Sofia 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Sofia, Bulgaria

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Morning: Check-in at your accommodation. We recommend staying in the city center for easy access to main attractions. (Hotel Moskva, Central Hotel Sofia)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Sofia’s most iconic landmarks. Nearby, explore the National Palace of Culture and the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Evening: Stroll around Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s premier shopping street, and enjoy dinner at Three House Kitchen, known for its contemporary Bulgarian cuisine.

Day 2: Historical & Archaeological Sites

  • Morning: Visit the Sofia History Museum to gain insight into the city’s past. Next, head to the Rotunda St. George, an early Christian rotunda built in the 4th century AD.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Roman Complex and the Serdica Archaeological Site. End your day at the Sofia Central Mineral Baths for a relaxing experience.
  • Evening: Dine at Hlebar, offering traditional Bulgarian dishes with a modern twist.

Day 3: Natural Beauty & Green Spaces

  • Morning: Take a cable car up to Vitosha Mountain and enjoy the stunning views of Sofia. Alternatively, hike one of the many trails.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Boyana Waterfall and relax in the nearby park. Return to Sofia for dinner at Le Bistrot Provence, a charming French restaurant.

Day 4: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Gallery for Foreign Art, home to an impressive collection of European and Asian art. Next, explore the Sofia City Art Gallery.
  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at the South Park, a vibrant cultural hub featuring street art, independent shops, and eateries.
  • Evening: Savor Bulgarian wine and cuisine at C casual dining.

Day 5: Day Trip to Rila Monastery

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery, one of Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s most significant monasteries. (Book a tour)
  • Afternoon: Return to Sofia and enjoy your last evening at leisure, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering new ones.

Things to Know:

  • Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but it’s always good to have cash on hand for smaller establishments.
  • English is widely spoken, especially among young people and service staff. However, learning a few basic phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
  • Sofia has an efficient public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and the metro. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or through the Telinet app.
  • Tipping in restaurants is customary; 10% is considered acceptable.

Transportation: Sofia’s public transportation system is reliable and affordable, making it easy to explore the city without a car. However, if you prefer private transport, consider booking a taxi or using Uber.

Tips:

  • Try local specialties such as shopska salad, banitsa, and mussaka while in Sofia.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays and events.
  • Stay alert to potential pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Keep your belongings secure.

Enjoy your trip to Sofia!